New Delhi: Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and UPA (United Progressive Alliance) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi today (Aug 20, 2004) led the nation in paying homage to Rajiv Gandhi on the late premier's 60th birth anniversary.

They were among a host of dignitaries to offer floral tributes to the former Prime Minister at his samadhi, 'Vir Bhoomi', in New Delhi.

Lt Governor of Delhi B L Joshi, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and several Union Ministers, besides Rajiv's daughter Priyanka Wadra and her husband Robert Wadra also paid homage at the samadhi.

The day, marked as 'Sadbhavana Divas', witnessed song-presentations by children at 'Vir Bhoomi' praising Rajiv for his secular and progressive vision.

The samadhi has a new look with a large lotus in full bloom, carved out of stone, adorning it.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh unveiled a statue of Rajiv Gandhi near Parliament House in New Delhi.

Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee, Leader of Opposition L K Advani and Congress President Sonia Gandhi attended the brief function.

Several Union Ministers and MPs offered floral tributes at the statue placed on the Sansad Marg-Talkatora Road junction, near the Parliament House.